Justice News

St. Louis County Man Indicted On Tax And Weapons Charges

St. Louis, MO – JOEY D. WOOD was indicted for allegedly filing six false tax returns for himself and three others claiming refunds totaling over $27,000 for tax years 2011 and 2012.

According to the indictment, Wood filed false tax returns for himself claiming refunds for 2011 and 2012, and filed false returns claiming refunds for three other people for the same years. The indictment also alleges that on May 17, 2013, Wood was in possession of one or more firearms. Due to a previous felony conviction, he is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

Wood, St. Louis County, MO, was indicted by a federal grand jury on six felony counts of filing false tax returns and one felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment was returned May 28th, but remained sealed until the arrest of the defendant earlier today.

If convicted, each of the tax counts of the indictment carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000, the firearms charges carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000. In determining the actual sentences, a Judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation, the St. Louis County Police Department and the Missouri Department of Revenue. Assistant United States Attorney Steven Muchnick is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney's Office.

As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.